Butter Chicken Meatballs

When I first decided to make Butter Chicken Meatballs, it was a busy weeknight, and I craved something comforting yet quick to prepare. I remember walking into the kitchen, the aroma of spices lingering in the air from a previous meal, and thinking how wonderful it would be to combine the rich flavors of butter chicken with the convenience of meatballs. I was determined to create a dish that would not only satisfy my hunger but also bring a smile to my family’s faces. As I gathered the ingredients, I felt the excitement build—this was going to be a game-changer for our dinner table!

Butter Chicken Meatballs Shopping List

The ingredients for Butter Chicken Meatballs are carefully chosen to create a dish that’s not just tasty but also comforting. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the rich flavors of this dish. For instance, the combination of ground turkey and spices ensures that every meatball is packed with flavor while also being moist and tender.

• 1 pound ground turkey or chicken: The main protein that forms the base of the meatballs, providing a juicy texture.
• 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together, ensuring the meatballs hold their shape while cooking.
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs: Adds a lovely crunch to the meatballs and helps to keep them moist.
• Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the overall flavors of the dish.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Used for cooking and adds richness to the dish.
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated: A fragrant addition that elevates the taste of the meatballs.
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated: Adds warmth and a hint of spice to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon garam masala: A key spice blend that characterizes butter chicken.
• 2 teaspoons curry powder: Enhances the flavor profile with its aromatic spices.
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric: Adds a warm color and an earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Brings a bit of heat, adjustable to your taste.
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste: Provides a rich base for the sauce.
• 1 can (14 ounces) full-fat coconut milk: Creates a creamy texture and balances the spices.
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and tang to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Makes the sauce silky and flavorful.
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped: A bright, fresh garnish that complements the dish.
• Steamed rice and naan: Perfect accompaniments for serving.

Putting Together Butter Chicken Meatballs

Making Butter Chicken Meatballs is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps for a comforting meal your family will love.

1. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step is crucial as it helps cook the meatballs evenly and makes for easy cleanup later.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, panko bread crumbs, and a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture. This helps keep the meatballs tender. Coat your hands with a bit of olive oil and roll the mixture into tablespoon-sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making about 15 to 20 meatballs.
3. Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are crisp on the outside and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking; you want them to be juicy!
4. While the meatballs are baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for your sauce.
5. Next, add the garlic and ginger to the skillet, cooking for another 5 minutes. Season with a little salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stir in the garam masala, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until the spices become fragrant and release their oils. Be careful not to burn them, as it can alter the flavor of your sauce.
7. Add the tomato paste and coconut milk, along with half a cup of water. Stir everything together until well combined, and bring the sauce to a boil. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
8. Once the sauce is thickened, stir in the Greek yogurt and butter. This will create a creamy, luscious sauce that envelops the meatballs beautifully.
9. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce, stirring gently to coat them. Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
10. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. This adds a fresh touch to the dish and enhances the overall flavor.
11. Serve the Butter Chicken Meatballs over a bed of fluffy steamed rice, accompanied by warm naan. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Recipe Variations about Butter Chicken Meatballs

There are plenty of ways to customize your Butter Chicken Meatballs to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Swap the protein: Use ground beef or lamb if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the meat with chickpeas or lentils for a hearty and nutritious version.
• Spice level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preference for heat.
• Add veggies: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
• Serving options: Try serving with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
• Flavor adjustment: If you want a sweeter sauce, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
• Leftover magic: Use leftover meatballs in wraps or salads for a quick lunch option.

Perfect Matches for Butter Chicken Meatballs

When it comes to serving Butter Chicken Meatballs, there are a myriad of options to make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some perfect pairings:

• Steamed rice: Fluffy white or brown rice serves as the perfect base for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Naan: Warm naan is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, making it a favorite among many.
• Side salad: A light cucumber or mixed greens salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the meatballs.
• Special occasions: These meatballs are excellent for family gatherings, festive dinners, or casual weeknight meals.
• Meal prep: This dish stores well, so consider making it ahead for easy reheating throughout the week.
• Pair with beverages: Consider light herbal teas or refreshing lemonades to complement the spicy flavors.
• Seasonal sides: Serve with roasted seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Butter Chicken Meatballs is a deliciously inventive twist on a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to your dinner table. The combination of tender meatballs in a rich, creamy sauce is sure to become a family favorite. I encourage you to try making this delightful recipe and enjoy the comforting flavors it brings. It’s perfect for any occasion and sure to impress everyone at the table!

Butter Chicken Meatballs

The ultimate comfort food, Butter Chicken Meatballs are quick and easy to make, bursting with rich flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, these meatballs are tender, juicy, and served in a creamy sauce that will leave you craving more. Make this dish tonight for a satisfying meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Indian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Baking Sheet
• Large Pot
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground turkey or chicken
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
• kosher salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper more or less to taste
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 can (14 ounces) full fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
• steamed rice and naan, for serving

Instructions

 

• 1. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step is crucial as it helps cook the meatballs evenly and makes for easy cleanup later.
• 2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, panko bread crumbs, and a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture. This helps keep the meatballs tender. Coat your hands with a bit of olive oil and roll the mixture into tablespoon-sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making about 15 to 20 meatballs.
• 3. Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are crisp on the outside and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking; you want them to be juicy!
• 4. While the meatballs are baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for your sauce.
• 5. Next, add the garlic and ginger to the skillet, cooking for another 5 minutes. Season with a little salt and pepper to taste.
• 6. Stir in the garam masala, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until the spices become fragrant and release their oils. Be careful not to burn them, as it can alter the flavor of your sauce.
• 7. Add the tomato paste and coconut milk, along with half a cup of water. Stir everything together until well combined, and bring the sauce to a boil. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
• 8. Once the sauce is thickened, stir in the Greek yogurt and butter. This will create a creamy, luscious sauce that envelops the meatballs beautifully.
• 9. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce, stirring gently to coat them. Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
• 10. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. This adds a fresh touch to the dish and enhances the overall flavor.
• 11. Serve the Butter Chicken Meatballs over a bed of fluffy steamed rice, accompanied by warm naan. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Freezing: These meatballs freeze well! Freeze them before cooking in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. They can be cooked from frozen.
• Pairing: Serve with fresh salads or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• Flavor boost: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
• Quick reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick meal. The sauce keeps the meatballs moist.

Keyword Butter Chicken Meatballs, Comfort Food, easy dinner recipes, Quick Weeknight Meals